The company announced today that the 2024 Kia EV9 3-row all-electric SUV will start at $54,900.
The EV9 is the first 3-row electric vehicle (EV) from a non-luxury automaker. It serves the role of an electric Kia Telluride but brings a more distinctive look.
Its fractal-inspired design theme, linear “star map” lighting, and blocky wheel designs should make it one of the most recognizable cars on the road – at least until Kia brings the same theme to the smaller EV5, due out soon.
That $54,900 price will get you the base model, the EV9 Light rear-wheel drive (RWD). It uses a single electric motor driving the rear wheels, good for 215 horsepower. SynTex synthetic leather, 19-inch alloy wheels, and an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat with heating and ventilation are standard.
Kia hasn’t released pricing for other variants, but we know they are coming. Our expert reviewer has test-driven a dual-motor variant with all-wheel drive and 379 horsepower. And, on a recent trip to Kia headquarters, executives told us to expect a sporty GT-Line edition to follow.
Whatever price the company names for them will likely come down for patient buyers. Kia says the EV9 will initially be built in South Korea, but production “is scheduled to move to the company’s state-of-the-art facility in West Point, Georgia, in 2024.” That may enable it to qualify for up to $7,500 in federal EV tax credits, depending on where Kia sources critical battery minerals.
Beginning in 2024, Americans will be able to use the tax credit as a downpayment.
